Ray Parlour, affectionately known as the “Romford Pelé”, is an Arsenal legend and a popular sports media personality. Now 53 years old, he remains a regular presence in the football world as a pundit for talkSPORT and BBC Radio 5 Live, where he provides expert analysis and shares stories from his decorated career
Ray and Arsène Wenger shared a highly successful eight-year partnership at Arsenal (1996–2004), during which he evolved from a squad player into a vital component of Wenger’s trophy-winning sides. Despite his initial confusion at Wenger’s appointment—famously asking, “Who the f* is that?**”—Ray became one of the manager’s most trusted “engine room” players
Away from the studio, he is a sought-after after-dinner speaker, known for his humorous “treasure chest of tales” from the Highbury dressing room but
beyond the comedy, he discusses teamwork, resilience, and the mindset required for Arsenal’s unbeaten “Invincibles” season.
